Catch the much-anticipated return of Spain’s top division as Xavi looks to defend his La Liga crown this massive season.
Friday 11 August
Almeria 14/10 | Draw 24/10 | Vallecano 39/20 (19:30)
Opening up the game week sees Almeria host Vallecano at the Power Horse Stadium. Almeria missed the drop by a single point last campaign and kicking off the season against a side who put an aggregated 5-1 against them last time around doesn’t bode well. Back the traveling side.
Sevilla 11/10 | Draw 47/20 | Valencia 5/2 (22:30)
Among the many leagues kicking off this weekend, a must-see encounter pits two historically great clubs who struggled to garner any good football last season. So, this opening encounter should set the tone. Back Both Teams To Score at 9/10.
Saturday 12 August
Real Sociedad 13/20 | Draw 29/10 | Girona 44/10 (17:00)
After losing Alexander Isak, Sociedad haven’t found a true replacement. But experience gained in the Bundesliga for Alexander Sorloth might provide the confidence necessary to lead the line. Get strongly behind Sociedad.
Las Palmas 15/10 | Draw 2/1 | Mallorca 22/10 (19:30)
Winning the Segunda Division title was a missed opportunity for Las Palmas but being promoted has been taken with both hands. The newly promoted side who conceded the least number of goals in the second division has acquired two centre forwards, and two midfielders including a new goalkeeper. Back the home side to get off the mark.
Athletic Bilbao 9/4 | Draw 49/20 | Real Madrid 12/10 (21:30)
Real Madrid have not had the greatest of pre-seasons, but their football looks a lot more fluid than the regular style of play we often see under Carlo Ancelotti. The value bet of the weekend goes to Real Madrid.
Sunday 13 August
Celta Vigo 12/10 | Draw 9/4 | Osasuna 26/10 (17:00)
Just like most of the bottom half, Celta Vigo narrowly escaped relegation by a mere three points. The ownership have made huge strides to secure a better finish this season, and with the signings under new head coach Rafa Benitez, the start of the season looks promising. Back the home win.
Villarreal 15/20 | Draw 29/10 | Real Betis 7/2 (19:30)
Compared to the prior campaign’s success, Real Betis had a turbulent run last season. Villarreal were in a similar boat, with the departure of Unai Emery, but managed to still finish five points ahead of Betis. The draw to start off the season between these two sides seems likely.
Getafe 5/1 | Draw 3/1 | Barcelona 6/10 (21:30)
Getafe won the Segunda Division to get back into the top- fight, but there’s a big gap between the top of the La Liga and second-string champions. Barcelona is a good bet, but I’d avoid adding them to any multiple.
Monday 14 August
Cadiz 12/10 | Draw 21/10 | Alaves 26/10 (19:30)
Last season’s relegation battle was extremely tight, and even though Cadiz finished 14th, they were just two points clear of the drop. I believe Alaves are on a similar level to the hosts, and a draw is probable.
Atletico Madrid 1/3 | Draw 44/10 | Granada 8/1 (21:00)
The banker of the game week goes to the closing fixture when Atletico Madrid welcome Granada. Memphis Depay has had a stellar pre-season, looking quicker and more powerful than ever. Add Atleti to all multiples.
